Understand Change Your Lifestyle and Use CPAP Therapy - Treat Sleep Apnea far more



Millions of people around the world suffer from sleep apnea, which is a medical condition characterized by repeated episodes of stops and starts in breathing as well as excessively loud snores. Thanks to research, we now know more about the ways to treat apnea than in previous years, a blessing that every sufferer must take advantage of.

Of course, treatment will depend on the type of apnea that you have been diagnosed with. There are three types of sleep apnea - obstructive, central sleep and complex. Through screening tests, your doctor should be able to determine into which category you fall into.

CPAP Therapy

One of the foremost ways to treat sleep apnea is through the use of the CPAP machine and its accessories. CPAP means continuous positive airway pressure, which works by keeping the airways open during sleep by delivering controlled air pressure.

You may find it difficult to adjust to the mask or pillow of the CPAP machine as well as the light hissing in the background. With constant practice, however, you should be able to use both the machine and the mask with ease. Check the Internet and ask the manufacturer for recommendations on how to solve the problems associated with the use of machine to treat apnea.

You should also contact your doctor if your loud snoring is still present. You may have to make adjustments on pressure settings, which your doctor can provide assistance.

It should also be noted that CPAP therapy to treat apnea can be adopted in conjunction with other treatments for related medical problems. For example, if you have central sleep apnea, your doctor will prescribe therapy for treatment of your heart or neuromuscular disorders.

You may also be prescribed supplemental oxygen while you sleep. You can choose from many different devices that deliver oxygen to your lungs.

Lifestyle Changes

Of course, CPAP therapy is not sufficient to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. A large part rests on your willingness to adopt lifestyle changes for a healthier body. Indeed, not even the latest in CPAP therapy, the most expensive of medicines and the most expert of doctors will not be able to help you with you sleep apnea problems unless and until you help yourself.

Said self-help will include the following lifestyle changes to treat sleep apnea:

* Eat a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, whole grains and cereals, lean meat and fishes as well as low-fact dairy products. The purpose is to make your body better able to withstand the complications of sleep apnea like the high risks for heart diseases and diabetes.

* Lose your excess weight. You will benefit by way of lesser throat constriction, which will go a long way towards better breathing during sleep.

* Avoid the consumption of stimulants like alcohol, caffeine and nicotine as well as tranquilizers like sleeping pills.

Indeed, the ways to treat sleep apnea are many but CPAP therapy and lifestyle changes are still the best ways to achieve the purpose.

Sleep Apnea Mask

CPAP Clinic - HealthCare at your home We serve Toronto Area, Ontario, Canada. Contact us: 1-877-430-CPAP(2727) or info@CPAPClinic.ca.

The CPAP machine in Toronto and the CPAP masks in Toronto are two of the best devices to treat sleep apnea in Toronto. Visit CPAPClinic.ca today and purchase them for yourself or a loved one.






Change Your Lifestyle and Use CPAP Therapy - Treat Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Mask

Go through CPAP Mask: Why Masks Leak and Solutions more



Sleep Apnea Mask

In order to achieve all the benefits from CPAP Therapy you must be consistently using the CPAP any time you are sleeping. Some of the main reasons you discontinue CPAP therapy is because your CPAP mask is uncomfortable, causes skin irritations, and creates sleep interruption or a combination of any of these.

The most common cause for any or all of these can most likely be linked to a CPAP Mask leaking. Below are four suggestions why you may be experiencing leaks as well as solutions to resolve the issue.

1. If air is leaking into eyes, that usually indicates the mask is too big or too long since the leaks are around the nose. This is why you need to ensure a proper fit when you first purchase your mask. As you may know, one of the side effects of sleep apnea can be weight gain or loss. Your body and facial structure will more than likely change if you experience a significant change. Therefore you may need to be refitted or consider using a different style.

2. If air is leaking around your mouth, and you have recently added facial hair under the nose, this could be cause of the leaking. If hair removal is not an option you may have to consider a slightly different style. Be sure to inform the supplier of any facial hair when selecting your next mask so they can guide you to selecting the best CPAP mask for you.

3. As masks age they will start to leak. As the cushion on the mask ages, the pillows or seals will start to deteriorate and will cause the mask to leak especially if your mask is 6 months or older. Sometimes you can replace the cushions on the mask without having to buy an entire new mask. Contact the supplier and have the make and model of your mask ready to find out if this will be an option for you. As a general note most masks manufacturers recommend replacing a CPAP mask or CPAP cushions on mask every 3-6 months.

4. Your pillow could be pushing against the mask causing the leak. Most people change positions during the night that standard pillows will not accommodate. Special CPAP pillows are designed to allow for all sleeping positions including back, side and even stomach sleepers with minimal contact to the CPAP Mask. Look for CPAP Pillows that not only accommodate the mask but also provide outstanding neck support. Proper neck support promotes consistent airflow in the nostrils from the CPAP machine. Making use of a CPAP Pillow's unique design and sturdiness means it is better suited for any type of CPAP mask and guarantees you a more comfortable night's sleep. Therefore you may not need to replace the mask at all, simply try changing your pillow.

As you know sleep apnea is not just an annoyance, this is a sleep problem that can have potentially serious medical problems so it requires your immediate attention and consistent use. With continued use you may start to feel so much better as you begin to sleep more soundly you may experience more energy, be more alert and could start to feel superior overall. That is why it is so important to address any problems such as leaking masks as soon as possible so you can continue down the path of wellness.


Stephanie Beck, creator of http://www.cpapmaskreview.com, where you can receive a FREE 34 page report packed with valuable tips, definitions, charts, solutions and more to finding the best CPAP Mask for you. Plus 20 videos and a 45 min previously recorded interview with one of today's leading Sleep Apnea Experts.






CPAP Mask: Why Masks Leak and Solutions

Sleep Apnea Mask

Read Common Problems and Solutions When Wearing a CPAP Mask additional



A report by The National Institute of Health, estimates that about 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. Almost 80% of this population suffers silently. Sleep apnea refers to a condition where a person is unable to sleep because of abnormal breathing. The abnormality could either manifest in the form of a pause when breathing or in low breathing. The pause could last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. Sleep Apnea however, can be treated efficiently with the use of CPAP and the right CPAP mask.

The problem with wearing a CPAP mask, however is that patients often experience side effects that can be tackled effectively with help from a health professional. Here is a list of common problems faced by CPAP mask wearers and solutions to their problems.

The most common problem that people face when wearing a mask is discomfort. This usually occurs because either the mask not fit properly or the patient has adjusted the mask to be too tight. The best way to avoid this problem is to consult a sleep professional before buying a mask. Ideally a CPAP mask should fit in comfortably to avoid air leak. The mask however should not be pulled too tight to prevent air leak. In such a case it can be safely assumed that the mask does not fit. You could either choose from a full face mask, nasal mask or a nasal pillow. Immaterial of the choice of mask, remember to consult a sleep specialist or a health professional before you choose a CPAP mask.

The second common problem faced by a CPAP mask wearers is nasal congestion or irritation. Your nose helps to humidify the air that you breathe in. The CPAP sometimes dries your nose causing a buildup of mucus and more moisture to the nose. Patients suffering from a running nose or irritation can contact a sleep specialist who would usually suggest a cold water humidifier. For those who still face this problem can use a heated humidifier that heats the air, with the water allowing the air to carry moisture. There are several manufacturers' to choose from. You could choose a mask made by Resmed, Respironics, Fisher & Paykel.

Another common problem that a CPAP mask wearers face is difficulty in breathing. People suffering from sinus problems, allergies and a deviated septum may face problems wearing a mask. For those suffering from allergies and sinus problem may consult an ENT specialist before wearing a mask. For those suffering a deviated septum, can try a mask that can be worn over the mouth. There are several types.

Sleep Apnea if left untreated can be a potential life threatening problem. Treating them with CPAP with the right CPAP mask is the most effective method to tackle this problem.

Sleep Apnea Mask
Tag :




Common Problems and Solutions When Wearing a CPAP Mask


Study Health Risks Of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) far more



Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious medical condition that affects a person when they are sleeping. As a person sleeps, his or her throat relaxes. The condition causes the throat to relax during sleep to the point that it blocks air from going in or out of the sleeping individual. This may happen several times a night. One of the hallmark symptoms of OSA, other than the cessation of breathing, is snoring.

There are several risks associated with apnea. Failing to get treatment for this condition can result in complications that are life-threatening. Seeking treatment reduces these risks greatly.

Complications of Untreated OSA

Hypertension - When the person with sleep apnea fails to breathe during the night, the body attempts to correct the problem. One of the results of this is high blood pressure, or hypertension. As the severity of apnea increases, so do the chances of developing high blood pressure.

Other cardiovascular problems - If the person with OSA also suffers from heart disease, the chances of sudden cardiac arrest increase. This is because each episode of breathing cessation causes decreased oxygenation of the blood. The condition has also been linked to many different cardiac illnesses, including congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

Stroke - Regardless of whether hypertension is present or not, the person with obstructive sleep apnea is more likely to suffer from a stroke than a person without it.

Fatigue - Although the person with the condition may not physically feel like they wake up several times per night, their disruption in breathing prevents them from getting a restful sleep. Each instance of breathing cessation is accompanied by an increase in the level of wakefulness of the affected person. This ultimately prevents the person from entering the restful period of the sleep cycle for any length of time. The end result is extreme daytime fatigue.

Surgical Complications - The person who suffers from sleep apnea is more likely to suffer complications related to the sedation from surgery than those who don't have this disorder. The medications used to sedate a person in surgery, along with the fact that a person is placed on his or her back for surgery results in increased chances for breathing cessation and sudden cardiac death.

Liver Damage - There is a correlation with abnormal liver function tests and OSA. People who have sleep apnea tend to have increased liver enzymes. This may be because the body is never allowed to "rest and digest," or because people with sleep apnea always feel like they need to get "a good night's sleep" so they self-medicate with sleeping aids, alcoholic beverages or illicit drugs. In any case, these things will increase liver enzymes.

Treating sleep apnea

The first line of treatment for a person with the condition is often CPAP. Continuous positive airway pressure is administered via mask as a person sleeps. This treatment is very effective in eradicating sleep apnea symptoms. However, it doesn't come without its own problems.

Most often, it's difficult for the person with sleep apnea to get accustomed to wearing a mask that's attached to a machine while they are sleeping. Those who persevere do get used to it though in time. In addition, the mask sometimes may not fit properly, giving the person with sleep apnea yet another reason to stop wearing the mask. There are many different types of masks available for a sufferer of OSA and again with perseverance the correct mask can be found. The machine has a certain background noise, and may take some time to get used to, however this has been much improved in recent years. Non-compliance or poor compliance with CPAP results in no improvement in the problems and risks associated with this illness.

People who are affected with obstructive sleep apnea are more prone to develop problems that can become fatal. Treating sleep apnea will greatly decrease a person's chances of developing one or more of these problems. In addition, the partner of the affected person will likely appreciate the decreased snoring and increased libido their partner will have!

Sleep Apnea Mask

Article written by Simon who represents MHA Care Homes - MHA is a charity providing care, accommodation and support services for older people throughout Britain. They are one of the most respected charitable care provider in the sector and amongst the largest charities in Britain, providing award winning services and specialist dementia care to older people for nearly 70 years.






Health Risks Of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Sleep Apnea Mask

Examine Sleep Apnea - 3 Ways to Stop Sleep Apnea far more



Sleep Apnea

If you have sleep apnea, you are probably already aware that you are at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and daytime sleepiness. There is also an increased risk of work related and driving accidents associated with this disease.   If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, either because of extreme tiredness or loud snoring accompanied by cessation in breathing (this will most likely only be detected by a bed or room mate, there are three things you should do.  

1. Ask your doctor to refer you to a sleep study. If you have apnea, the only real way to diagnose the disease is to have a sleep study. Lab technicians will monitor you during sleep to determine if you are experiencing apneic events.  

2. Use the equipment prescribed. There is no cure for sleep apnea. If you have the disease you will most likely be prescribed a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, or a dental device. Over time, many users become lax in their use of this equipment. As the machine or the dental device only prevent apneas from occurring while being used. If you don't use them, the apneas continue unabated.  

3. Lose weight. This is most suggested medical advice. If you overweight you are much more likely to suffer from sleeping disorders, in addition to many other diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, just to name a few. So losing weight will help you in a myriad of ways.  

Although apnea can have serious repercussions over the long term, these can most easily be prevented by the use of a sleep apnea machine.  

If you want additional information about sleep apnea...


You can find a wealth of FREE information about apnea, sleeping disorders, and sleep apnea machines at the sleep apnea source information website.

There is a wealth of information about sleep apnea at: http://sleepapneasource.com




Sleep Apnea - 3 Ways to Stop Sleep Apnea




Understand Dangers of Sleep Apnea extra





Dangers of Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Mask

People tend to ignore the disorder of sleep apnea thinking the snoring that is often associated with the condition is just an annoyance and will eventually go away. The truth of the matter is that it is a condition that causes a person to stop breathing for seconds to minutes at a time; this deep down at its core is considered a sleep disorder and therefore requires serious attention. The good news is that once identified, the use of a CPAP Machine and Apnea Mask have proven to be successful in helping millions sleep apnea sufferers.

Unfortunately, if left untreated, Sleep apnea will not just go away or cure itself. It is a condition that will cause a person to lose sleep and can ultimately cause more serious medical conditions, including such life threading problems as Congestive Heart Failure and/or Cor Pulmonale (heart enlargement). The best way to treat it is to understand some of the dangers that are associated with it. With this knowledge, you are able to make better choices about a proper treatment plan with your Doctor and have more of a sense of urgency to be compliant with the prescribed therapy.

Excessive Sleepiness

One of the main dangers of sleep apnea is more of an annoyance than a danger in that it disturbs sleep at night. During a sleep apnea event the person will wake several times throughout the night and experience bouts of paused breathing. As a result, in the morning the person will wake up tired and annoyed and experience throughout their day excessive daytime drowsiness. For this reason, that people who suffer from sleep apnea are often times advised not to drive until they can be treated effectively.

Lack of Concentration, Psychological Problems, and Weight Gain

It has also been noted in people that there is a severe lack of concentration among people who suffer from apnea episodes during sleep. This can affect either performance at their job or at work as a result. It is also worth mentioning that people who suffer from sleep apnea also suffer from psychological problems as well. This will also lead to weight gain as this is brought on by an increase in appetite due to a lack of sleep.

Lack of Oxygen Leads to Heart Complications

Another danger of sleep apnea is the lack of oxygen that reaches the brain. Our bodies thrive on oxygen and when that is not present we have a strain placed upon our heart as a result. The lack of oxygen occurs when the body is deprived of oxygen due to pauses that occur in a person's breathing. When this occurs, your heart overcompensates (or is required to work harder) in order to deliver the needed oxygen to all parts of the body. As a result of this overcompensation, areas of the heart can actually increase in size (due to the fact they are working harder) and increased high blood pressure can occur which ultimately lead to a stroke or heart attack.

Estimates show that over 18 million people in the United States are affected by sleep apnea and only 10% of those are properly diagnosed. If you sense that you are having issues at night, don't hesitate to contact your doctor about being tested for sleep apnea. It is easily treatable in most cases as long as a person is compliant with their therapy. This can range from change in diet, to the application of dental devices, or the use of CPAP equipment and Apnea mask.

With the serious possibility of negative heart conditions, can you really afford not to get tested? It is important to note that losing weight for many people can be all it takes to stop the apnea from occurring. But, the most popular form of apnea treatment is that of CPAP Machine and an Apnea Mask.


Ray Burk is the Editor and Publisher of ApneaMask.net a site that discusses the latest sleep apnea treatments. To learn more, go here to discover more great ideas on how to fight Sleep Apnea and get that good night's rest that you deserve now!




Go through Treating Sleep Apnea - Alternatives to CPAP Therapy a lot more



Sleep Apnea

The alternatives to CPAP therapy are a life saver for many sleep apnea patients. Not all the persons with sleep apnea can tolerate a CPAP treatment. There many reasons why they give up their treatment, depending on each patient.

Here are several reasons:
feeling of suffocation
dry mouth, which is the most common side effect
dryness of nose or nasal congestion
mask discomfort
the noise of the breathing machine
the feeling of claustrophobia
Fortunately, there are solutions for these problems, and some of them are really effective. There is no issue that cannot be worked out, especially with the advanced technology of today.

The most common alternative for CPAP treatment is a dental device or an oral appliance. This device is used to relieve the upper airway obstruction and snoring by modifying the position of the mandible, tongue, and other oral structures.

An oral appliance also prevents the tongue from blocking the airway passages.

Before choosing this type of therapy is very important to consult your doctor. He knows that not all the appliances can help your breathing disorder.

However, there are some disadvantages here, and the most common complaint is discomfort and salivation. The statistics show that this alternative therapy is more successful in patients with non-severe obstructive sleep apnea.

Bilevel positive airway pressure or BPAP is another alternative to CPAP machine, and they are more efficient. BPAP machines provides two pressure levels, one during inhalation and a lower one during exhalation. The pressure drop during exhalation is designed to increase comfort for patients who have trouble exhaling against an continuous incoming pressure, such as CPAP.

Behavioral therapy is an important part of your life when you are dealing with sleep apnea, and in mild cases this type of therapy may be all that is needed.
you should avoid the use of alcohol, tobacco, and sleeping pills, which make the airway more likely to collapse during sleep.
if you have problems with obesity, you can benefit from losing weight. Even a 10 percent weight loss can reduce the number of apneic events for most patients.
sleeping in a side position is often helpful. Try using a pillow or other device that may help you with this.
Playing at didgeridoo - this is the newest alternative to cpap treatment on the market, and is very well accepted by patients with moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. This might be due to training of the muscles of the upper airways, which control airway dilation and wall stiffening.

Regular playing of a didgeridoo reduces daytime sleepiness and snoring in people with moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and also improves the sleep quality of partners.

One final piece of advice: A new field of medicine offers fertile ground for scams. Shameless people are quick to exploit people's hopes and fears. Claims of miracle cures for sleep apnea are already germinating on internet. So, before trying an alternative treatment for CPAP, speak with your doctor about this option and listen to his opinion.


Thiery Remy You independent guide to Sleep Apnea Treatments and the author of http://www.Sleep-Apnea-Guide.com/ website.

If your are dealing with Sleep Apnea, quickly download his Free Sleep Apnea Guide Handbook that shows you the most important tips to have a good quality of life.




Treating Sleep Apnea - Alternatives to CPAP Therapy




Examine Apnea Machine Therapy and the Treatment of Sleep Apnea a lot more



Medical studies have revealed that approximately 4% of all middle aged men and 2% of women have some form of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea has been defined as a series of breathing cessation episodes during sleep that are caused by blocked or collapsed pharyngeal tissues in the airways that results in its victims having significant interrupted sleep. The most popular form of treatment for sleep apnea is the application of an apnea machine or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure device (CPAP), which is a small compressor that exudes air through tubing and a small face mask to open up the blocked airways.

Sleep apnea sufferers usually snore excessively, experience significant day time drowsiness and lack of energy, and are often overweight (which can cause the throat tissues to collapse). Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems. Sleep apnea causes its victims to not receive proper amounts of oxygen to the body as a result of the blocked or collapsed airways. Over the long term, this lack of oxygen puts undue pressure on the heart which can result in increased blood pressure, palpitations, or stroke. Thus, it is very important to address any potential airway blockage issues, such as snoring, with a doctor before long term damage is done.

Unfortunately, statistics show that 80% of sleep apnea cases go undiagnosed in the United States. The main reason being because most sleep apnea sufferers believe that it is "normal to snore" and that nothing can be done to treat the condition. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth, just small lifestyle changes can have an immediate impact on eliminating or lessening the condition such as: losing weight, not using certain medications, and avoiding the supine position while sleeping. If these changes don't improve the situation, the application of an apnea machine may be required.

How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
If your Doctor suspects you have sleep apnea, you will be asked to go to a sleep laboratory for testing. Typically, the testing requires a two night stay. The first evening is used to determine if sleep apnea is present. While a person sleeps, a polysomnography computer uses various electronic patches, which are attached to the body that can determine if the episodes of breathing cessation are occurring. In the event a confirmation of sleep apnea exists, then the person will be asked to stay the next night, where they will use a apnea machine while they sleep to see if the apnea condition can be remedied.

One of the indicators that sleep labs look for in determining the severity of a persons sleep apnea is the number of terminations in breathing that are taking place (apnea) and the declines in airflows that cause sleep arousal (hypopnea). These disturbances are summarized on an hourly basis and referred to as the apnea-hypopnea index (or respiratory disturbance index). Medical studies show that if a person has over 15 of these disturbances in a one hour period, that long term mortality rates are increased and that they are more subject having secondary heart related issues.

Apnea Machine Options
An apnea machine uses very specialized air pressures to open up blocked airways and tissues. An apnea mask, which is attached to the nose, mouth, or both receives the air pressure from the apnea machine and delivers to the blocked airways. It is important to note that there are many different types of apnea masks and that it is essential to have a comfortable one (studies show CPAP compliance drops significantly if the mask is uncomfortable). Unlike like apnea masks, there are only a few different models of apnea machines and most operate under the same principle. The most popular, the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) delivers a constant, steady airflow to its users.

However, for some CPAP users, the constant flow of air can become uncomfortable and not allow them to exhale properly. For these people, "smart CPAP's" have been created to allow for various levels of air pressure. In fact, these "Bi-level" apnea machines are called BiPAP's or Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure devices. A BiPAP apnea machine gradually uses increases and decreases air pressures so that its users can better tolerate airflow. As one would suspect, a BiPAP apnea machine is more costly than a CPAP because of the technology requirements needed to moderate air flow pressures but it certainly has been proven to help people who are having air pressure issues with CPAP Therapy.

Other Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
It is also important to note that surgical procedures and the use of dental devices have also shown to be successful to treat sleep apnea. However, these treatments are limited to very specific cases. Additionally, surgery can be costly and has inherent risks and rehabilitation factors and associated it.

Paying Sources
Apnea machine therapy is reasonably priced, when compared to the costs of surgery, and does require a Doctor's oversight and prescription to use it. The good news is that most major insurance companies, Medicare, and Medicaid will reimburse for expenses associated with the therapy. However, it is important to note that sleep medicine is still a new concept for many Doctors and a person needs to make sure they are using a Doctor who is experienced in this field to ensure they are getting exposed to the latest apnea machine and apnea mask options.

Sleep Apnea Mask
Tag :




Apnea Machine Therapy and the Treatment of Sleep Apnea


Understand Sleep Apnea - Current and Future Treatment Trends a lot more



Sleep Apnea

For over 18 million people, sleep doesn't always come easy. Most of us get to lay our heads down on our comfy pillows and drift off to sleep without any problems; but for some, being comfortable is not an option. Most people have heard about sleep apnea and the fact that it is caused by the soft palate collapsing, which can cause a person to stop breathing. What most people don't know about however is the lack of comfortable treatment methods for those who have the condition.

It is helpful to know a little bit more about this sleep condition so that the treatments can fully be understood. As noted, people who have sleep apnea often stop breathing in their sleep when the soft palate collapses. A person can go several years without even realizing they have sleep apnea, especially if they live alone. This is because the number one sign that a person could possibly have sleep apnea aside from momentarily not breathing is excessive and loud snoring. Unless you live with another person who vocalizes how loud and disturbing the snoring is, a person might not ever realize that their snoring is that bad. It has been found out that sleep apnea tends to affect those more who are either obese, getting up there in age or a combination of both. Medical professionals expect that as the current generation of adults start to age, that they are going to continue to see a steady rise of patients who develop sleep apnea.

The current and most common treatment for the sleep disorder seems to be the use of CPAP, which stands for "continuous positive airway pressure". The unfortunate side to this treatment is that it requires wearing a large and uncomfortable mask to bed every night. Patients seem to agree that the mask is so bulky and uncomfortable that only around half of people who are prescribed one actually use it as they are supposed to. Diagnosis of the disorder is commonly made by admitting a person to a hospital or sleep study center overnight and observing their sleeping patterns and their breathing. Luckily, most insurance companies cover sleep apnea testing these days, but it was found out that if you have to pay out of pocket, the test can run around $1,000.00.


While new medical advances are constantly being made, there has not been much done in the way of new treatments for sleep apnea. The one thing that is being done however is that companies who make the masks are trying to come up with ones that fit more comfortably so that patients will have no problems wearing them. That is the only apnea treatment trend that seems to be in the works and reasonable. For more on advances in sleep apnea and treatments for other health conditions, see http://www.theinternettimemachine.com.






Sleep Apnea - Current and Future Treatment Trends

Sleep Apnea

Read Sleep Apnea - Various Treatment Options extra





Sleep apnea is a disorder in which people experience shallow breathing or pauses in breathing during their sleep. The pauses can be for just a few seconds and they may last for a few minutes. They can occur anywhere between 5 to 30 times within the span of one hour. This is a chronic disorder and most people are never aware of the problem as it occurs during their sleep.

In a typical episode, the person's breathing passage becomes constricted and restricts breathing. This results in reduced oxygen supply to the body. When the brain detects this, it awakens the person and makes them breathe once again. This cycle can repeat often during the night, thereby causing interruption to a person's sleep. However, the person may not be aware of it consciously, and may only feel tired and drowsy during the day due to lack of proper sleep at night.

Unless a family member who sleeps with the person notices the problem, the condition may never get noticed. Even doctors may not be able to detect it during a routine examination unless the patient brings the topic up. There are no specific blood tests to detect the presence of the condition either.

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of this disorder, where the person's airway collapses or gets blocked during sleep. The blockage gives rise to shallow breathing or pauses in breathing. Especially people who are overweight and have excess fat under the chin may experience obstructive sleep apnea. Small children who have enlarged tonsils might also experience this condition.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

There are a number of different treatment options available for this particular illness. For mild forms of the disorder, oral appliances can be used to provide relief. These appliances are designed to keep the throat open during sleep, which effectively solves the problem of sleep apnea.

A sleep apnea pillow can also be used for mild cases of the disorder. The pillow is specifically designed to keep the air passage of the person open during sleep, therefore providing effective relief from the condition.

For people with moderate to severe forms of the disorder, a sleep apnea machine called a "continuous positive airway pressure" machine, or CPAP, would be helpful. This machine delivers positive air pressure through the nose using a mask placed over the face. The positive pressure forces air into the lungs and prevents any pauses in breathing during sleep.

Sleep apnea could lead to other health problems if left untreated. Therefore, proper detection and treatment are necessary for getting better sleep and maintaining good health.

Sleep Apnea

If you want to avoid sleep apnea [http://sleepapneaguide.co/] symptoms we really encourage you to make a visit to your doctor. Also be aware that if you want more information about sleep problems and you want to know how to stop snoring [http://sleepapneaguide.co/how-to-stop-snoring/], please visit our official site for more professional information.




Sleep Apnea - Various Treatment Options


Understand Sleep Apnea Treatment - Is Sleep Apnea Is Curable? more



What is sleep apnea? It is actually a sleep disorder in which patients suffers from disturbed sleep due to difficulties in breathing. This problem occurs due to several reasons and can be treated through different methods. It might seem to be a simple disorder of sleep but it should not be ignored at all because this can have serious repercussions for example heart attack, high blood pressure, strokes and even sudden death. It also affects the daily performance of the patient like lack of attention during job, car accidents and sleepiness throughout the day. If you are suffering from this sickness then you should not be disappointed because there are several sleep apnea treatments as it is curable. But before you go for its treatment you should know basics about this disease.

Symptoms

Sleep apnea is generally classified in three types by the doctors. These are: Central, obstructive and mixed sleeps apnea and out of these the most common is obstructive sleep apnea. In this condition the patient's breathing is stopped while sleeping and the patient comes out of deep sleep to breath normally. Sleep apnea includes snoring and abnormal suffocation during sleep. It can not be diagnosed by blood tests or by visiting doctors in day time. Only your close family members or roommate can notice this problem while you sleep.

Causes

There can be different causes for this illness; many people have this due to obesity. Overweight people are more likely to have this problem. It also occurs in men 2 to 3 times more than women. But after the age of 50 the risk of this problem is common in both genders. It may occur in women after menopause. Many people have it in their old age. Bad habits like smoking, drugs and alcohol can be one of the reasons for this condition. It often occurs as a genetic problem. There can be one of the patient's parents or blood relative suffering from this syndrome and the patient might inherit from them.

Well what ever the symptoms or causes are, the main thing is that it should not be left untreated as it can harm the patient in different ways. Sleep apnea treatment is available through different therapies like oral medications, CPAP devices, behavioral changes and surgery. You can get its treatment according to your condition.

If you are suffering from this disease you can go to your doctor and ask for the right treatment; do not live with this problem because it is curable.

Sleep Apnea

For more information on Sleep Apnea Treatment [http://www.baycpap.com] Visit baycpap.com




Sleep Apnea Treatment - Is Sleep Apnea Is Curable?

Sleep Apnea



Understand Sleep Apnea - The Cure more



Sleep Apnea

When you go to bed at night, chances are you just fall asleep and do not really remember anything until you wake up the next morning. However, if you still feel tired despite having gotten the obligatory eight hours of sleep, and are having trouble remembering things, then you might be suffering from something that you are not even aware of.

Specifically, you might be suffering from a sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. This is a problem that millions of people suffer from, but some are not even aware of. Sleep apnea results in a person not breathing for a minute at a time while asleep. Sometimes, the person stops breathing for even longer.

Sleep apnea is definitely something that, if left untreated, could be fatal, especially considering that the average sufferer does not even know he or she has it. The only way to tell for sure is to have a doctor perform a sleep study. Once the patient has been formally diagnosed with sleep apnea, it is then time to discuss the various treatment options.

The first alternative does not actually involve any medication at all; it simply involves following a weight loss plan. Many people who suffer from this sleep disorder do so because they are extremely overweight. So, if this is the prescribed treatment method, it is important to eat healthy food and to start exercising. Various medications might be prescribed as well, but another thing to keep in mind is that each treatment option is different, because each person is different!


More information on laser tattoo removal and a sleep center in your area is just a click away.






Sleep Apnea - The Cure

Sleep Apnea

Read through Sleep Apnea Devices and Their Side Effects additional





Unlike many disorders, for those afflicted with sleep apnea, the sufferers are often the people with whom they sleep. Bed partners have to lie awake listening to their irregular breathing patterns and worry that they may not take their next breath. Of course, those who are afflicted also contend with symptoms that make life difficult, particularly in their waking hours when they are dealing with tiredness and lack of concentration as a result. Sleep apnea devices are designed to assist the patient to breathe properly and thus, hopefully ensure a good night's sleep. Unfortunately, not all sleep apnea devices work for all sufferers so it can be a case of trial and error until the most appropriate device is determined.

CPAP devices

Some cases of the disorder are remedied with surgical solutions whereas others are more readily treated with sleep apnea devices designed to help the airways remain open during sleep. These can include, CPAP - Continuous Positive Airway Pressure - devices, dental appliances, jaw adjustment devices and even the administration of oxygen during sleep.

CPAP sleep apnea devices provide safe and effective, immediate relief. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. CPAP machines are portable air generators that operate to deliver oxygen at low pressure to the patient via nasal tubing or a full face mask. The job of the air pressure is to push the patient's tongue forward and open the throat so that air can flow more easily into the lungs.

Side effects

Unfortunately, CPAP sleep apnea devices are not without their own side effects. Some patients report dry eyes, headaches, soreness on the bridge of the nose, skin breakouts around the perimeter of the mask, skin dryness, dry mouth, dry nose and stomach wind. Still, for some patients, not using one of these machines presents more health issues than the associated side effects and could even make the difference between life and death.

Types of machines

CPAP machines are not all the same. There are those that are self-adjusting, some that are adjusted manually and some that are bi-pressure. Some include heated dehumidifiers. Understandably these kinds of sleep apnea devices require a prescription so that the correct machine can be purchased for the patient's particular requirements. It is important to develop a relationship with your machine retailer because they will stock all the necessary masks, hoses and other accessories that will need to be replaced periodically. Your retailer will be specially trained in the functioning of the machines and will be able to advise on maintenance as well as be able to answer all of your questions.

APAP machines

The APAP sleep apnea device is a machine that operates automatically to adjust the pressure required on a breath by breath basis, to keep patients' airways open as they sleep. APAP machines are more advanced, and therefore more expensive, than CPAPs but for severe apnea sufferers, the extra expense means enhanced peace of mind.

Dental devices

For those who are fortunate enough not to require comprehensive machinery, there are dental sleep apnea devices that are quite effective. They are portable so ideal for travel and in some instances, they are actually more successful and effective than surgery for some kinds of airway obstructions.

A dental sleep apnea device prevents the patient's tongue from falling back into the throat and causing the patient to stop breathing, however temporarily. The device simply holds the patient's lower jaw forward using two full arch acrylic devices that cover the teeth and that are attached to each other. Different models offer different degrees of advancement but medical professionals recommend at least 50% movement for success.

Side effects

Side effects of dental sleep apnea devices include soreness, build-up of saliva, possible damage to the jaw, teeth and mouth and even a permanent alteration to the position of the teeth or jaw. Again, the side effects must be weighed against the benefits achieved to determine the best solution.

Considering the degrees of severity of sleep apnea and the results achieved by some of the sleep apnea devices available to patients, sufferers should invest time in being diagnosed properly. Therapy for the condition is not a one-size-fits-all situation and solutions must be tailor-made for the individual.

Sleep Apnea Mask

Visit medopedia.com for more on the sleep apnea mask and sleep apnea tests




Sleep Apnea Devices and Their Side Effects


Understand Sleep Apnea - The Secret Sleep Disorder additional



Sleep Apnea

One of the most common sleep disorders in the world is sleep apnea, affecting millions of people each year. Sleep apnea occurs when a person stops breathing while they are asleep, for at least 10 seconds according to many medical journals. This can happen multiple times during the night, sometimes resulting in the person awakening and sometimes with the person remaining asleep but acting restless during the night.

Sleep apnea can result in chronic fatigue for the person affected by the condition. Because the person's inability to breathe is disrupting their sleep at night, whether they awaken or not, the person is not getting the quality sleep that will allow them to awake refreshed in the morning. After consecutive nights of this occurring, the person will become fatigued, irritable, and drowsy during the day.

Sleep apnea can be a difficult condition to diagnose because the person may be unaware that they stop breathing in their sleep. All that they know is that they may wake up in the middle of the night for no reason and even when they do sleep through the night, they are still tired when they awake. It may take months or years to determine the actual cause of the person's restlessness at night and during that time the person will continue to experience episodes of sleep apnea and may even become conditioned to its effects.

Treating sleep apnea can also be difficult because of the nature of the condition. Different treatments may be used but their effectiveness can be difficult to judge without a third party observing the sleeping behavior of the affected person. The condition is usually diagnosed by a loved one observing the interrupted sleep pattern of the person. The loved one also the person that observes the effects of the treatment and tells the doctor whether or not it is working.

The treatments used for sleep apnea cover a wide variety of options. Choosing the option that is best for a person's condition will depend on the type of sleep apnea affecting them and how severe the condition is. Some people are helped by changing the position that they sleep in at night while others will need some sort of medical device to help them keep their airways open while they sleep. If the person's condition is severe, then there are medical and surgical options that can be used to give the patient some relief from their condition. Sleep apnea is a condition that can be devastating to the people that it affects, but there are ways to reduce the effects that sleep apnea has on a person's life.


Having a sleeping disorder can be a nuisance but can also reduce you to a fatigued wreck of your former self. Sleep apnea is one of the more serious sleep disorders that usually requires medical assistance. Learn more about sleep apnea right now.




Sleep Apnea - The Secret Sleep Disorder




Study Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain a lot more





How Does Sleep Apnea Affect Your Eating Habits?
Due to lack of sleep, you tend to be fatigued or tired and this leads to wrong, unhealthy food choices. A few of the habits poor sleep cause are snacking when you feel sleepy during the day, choose high calorie comfort food, and eating right before you get to bed.

In a hectic world full of responsibilities, it is hard to take your mind off work, family and chores. In such stressful times, we tend to be sleep-deprived too (obstructive sleep apnea in extreme cases). If you are suffering from chronic snoring or OSA, you not only end up disrupting sleep of your bed partner. OSA causes decreases in the amount REM sleep (the deep, restful stage of sleep). Sometimes patients never reach the REM sleep stage - You may be asleep, but the brain and body is not getting the rest it so desperately needs.

Why OSA Affects Your Weight
Research has revealed that if you don't get enough sleep (due to chronic snoring and related conditions), the level of the "leptin" hormone in your body decreases. Due to this, you don't feel satisfied after a meal. Also lack of sleep results in a surge of the "ghrelin" hormone which stimulates your appetite.

Obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by decrease or cessation of breathing while you sleep. It is widely accepted that obesity is a known risk factor and obese people are more likely to develop obstructive apnea. However, it is now believed that the effects of the sleep disorder may predispose patients to gain weight too.

There are significant health consequences associated with sleep disorders and related conditions. However, you can rely on a physician to determine if you have and it is responsible for your weight gain.

How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?
The Pillar Procedure is a minimally-invasive Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment that can be done in one office visit. The obstructed airflow is corrected by inserting small, flexible polyester along the back of the palate, and had proven very effective in treating chronic snoring and sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea

For more information on the Pillar Procedure and other sleep apnea treatments, please visit AtlantaSnoring.com.

Stefano Grossi Atlanta Snoring Institute 770-389-0000




Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain


Understand Treating Sleep Apnea - Alternatives to CPAP Therapy additional



Sleep Apnea

The alternatives to CPAP therapy are a life saver for many sleep apnea patients. Not all the persons with sleep apnea can tolerate a CPAP treatment. There many reasons why they give up their treatment, depending on each patient.

Here are several reasons:
feeling of suffocation
dry mouth, which is the most common side effect
dryness of nose or nasal congestion
mask discomfort
the noise of the breathing machine
the feeling of claustrophobia
Fortunately, there are solutions for these problems, and some of them are really effective. There is no issue that cannot be worked out, especially with the advanced technology of today.

The most common alternative for CPAP treatment is a dental device or an oral appliance. This device is used to relieve the upper airway obstruction and snoring by modifying the position of the mandible, tongue, and other oral structures.

An oral appliance also prevents the tongue from blocking the airway passages.

Before choosing this type of therapy is very important to consult your doctor. He knows that not all the appliances can help your breathing disorder.

However, there are some disadvantages here, and the most common complaint is discomfort and salivation. The statistics show that this alternative therapy is more successful in patients with non-severe obstructive sleep apnea.

Bilevel positive airway pressure or BPAP is another alternative to CPAP machine, and they are more efficient. BPAP machines provides two pressure levels, one during inhalation and a lower one during exhalation. The pressure drop during exhalation is designed to increase comfort for patients who have trouble exhaling against an continuous incoming pressure, such as CPAP.

Behavioral therapy is an important part of your life when you are dealing with sleep apnea, and in mild cases this type of therapy may be all that is needed.
you should avoid the use of alcohol, tobacco, and sleeping pills, which make the airway more likely to collapse during sleep.
if you have problems with obesity, you can benefit from losing weight. Even a 10 percent weight loss can reduce the number of apneic events for most patients.
sleeping in a side position is often helpful. Try using a pillow or other device that may help you with this.
Playing at didgeridoo - this is the newest alternative to cpap treatment on the market, and is very well accepted by patients with moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. This might be due to training of the muscles of the upper airways, which control airway dilation and wall stiffening.

Regular playing of a didgeridoo reduces daytime sleepiness and snoring in people with moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and also improves the sleep quality of partners.

One final piece of advice: A new field of medicine offers fertile ground for scams. Shameless people are quick to exploit people's hopes and fears. Claims of miracle cures for sleep apnea are already germinating on internet. So, before trying an alternative treatment for CPAP, speak with your doctor about this option and listen to his opinion.


Thiery Remy You independent guide to Sleep Apnea Treatments and the author of http://www.Sleep-Apnea-Guide.com/ website.

If your are dealing with Sleep Apnea, quickly download his Free Sleep Apnea Guide Handbook that shows you the most important tips to have a good quality of life.




Treating Sleep Apnea - Alternatives to CPAP Therapy




Read Choose a CPAP Mask Depending on How You Breathe extra



Choose a CPAP Mask Depending on How You Breathe

Sleep Apnea Mask

Sleep apnea must be one of the most dangerous ways to die in your sleep. Well, of course, many of us will love to die in our sleep as it is perceived as a very peaceful way to pass on into the other world, so to speak. Still, you cannot deny that to die because of sleep apnea may not be a good way to go either.

Moving on from the morbid talk of death to talks about living a healthier life, you will need a CPAP machine and a CPAP mask to overcome the primary symptoms of sleep apnea. There are three types of CPAP masks to choose from depending on how you breathe and how you want the mask to fit. You have to consider the pros and cons of each CPAP mask before deciding on which one to choose.

Nasal Mask

The nasal mask is preferred by individuals who want a comfortable and sturdy mask that stays on well even after repeated tossing and turning in bed. Of course, you must learn to sleep in one or two positions but if you are more active in bed, in a matter of speaking, then the nasal mask is the best option for you.

Aside from the comfort and ease of use, the nasal CPAP mask maintains a good seal. This is very important in the avoidance of skin problems brought on by leaks although it must be emphasized that a good humidifier can quickly resolve the issue. However, if you are a mouth-breather, then the nasal mask is not a good choice. You should also consider the fact that the headgear and straps of the nasal mask is more complicated.

Nasal Insert Mask

If you suffer from claustrophobia brought on by a full-face CPAP mask, then go for the nasal insert type. Respironics and ResMed manufacture a few of the best nasal insert masks in the industry so it pays to check them out in your favorite CPAP retailer sites.

This type of mask is very easy to get on and off with fewer straps to worry about. Plus, you can still perform basic activities like reading books and watching television before going to sleep since it does not interfere with your line of sight. Add in the fact that it has ports for direct oxygen and you will have the best nights of your life in bed. However, beware that the nasal insert CPAP mask can cause skin injuries and can be pulled off easily in sleep. And if you are a mouth-breather, this is not the one for you, too.

Full Face Mask

For mouth-breathers, the best is the full-face mask. The best advantage of this type of mask is that you can breathe either through your nose or your mouth. You can even use it even when you have a cold or if your nose is congested. Plus, you need not worry too much about it falling off in your sleep.

Take note, however, of its disadvantages that include a claustrophobic feeling, sores on the bridge and a tendency to leak all over the place. You should ask your doctor for tips on how to overcome these cons. Indeed, the right choice of a CPAP mask can mean the difference between life and death. We hope you choose life, of course.

CPAP Clinic - HealthCare at your home
We serve Toronto Area, Ontario, Canada.
Contact us: 1-877-430-CPAP(2727) or info@CPAPClinic.ca


Visit CPAPClinic.ca today and find the best Respironics CPAP machines in Toronto and its accessories like the CPAP mask in Canada particularly the Resmed mask Ontario, Canada from the reputable site.






Read Driving with Sleep Apnea - The Risks Explained additional



Sleep Apnea

Sleepiness is one among many reasons for traffic accidents. Sleep apnea can create daytime sleepiness or sleepiness in unusual situations. You might have seen people falling asleep without any signs of drowsiness. In some instances They can also fall asleep in the middle of doing something and wake up after 10 minutes to even two hours later!

The Cause?

Individuals suffering from sleep apnea experience short cessations of breathing. The natural response of brain will be to stir him/her to wake up. After waking up, the person falls asleep once again repeating the cycle. All these cessations happen without the knowledge of the individual.

Though the person doesn't know whether he/she has woken up, the rhythm of sleep is affected and most importantly disturbed.. We all need to go through all the five stages of sleep (viz. Stage 1 through 4 and REM sleep) to give complete rest to the brain. When someone is suffering from Sleep Apnea the brain gets exhausted without the knowledge of the affected person. The brain will find ways to make up for the loss of rest and by forcing the person to go to sleep irrespective of the situation that he or she might find themselves in.

The Driving Risks ...............

This explains the very real & deadly risk of Sleep Apnea and driving. There are more than enough chances on our ever more congested roads for anyone to fall asleep any time during driving, but when you bear in mind a Sleep Apnea sufferer simply cannot help themselves, in laymans terms - the brain simply shuts down (or certainly tries to).

There is only one reason for feeling sleepy. It is sleeplessness. The person suffering from sleep apnea is literally restless during his/her regular sleeping hours. The break in sleeping rhythm is the villain here.

Possibly as dangerous as Drink Driving ?

In different simulated driving experiments, the results have indicated that individuals suffering from sleep apnea performed very poorly, even as badly as a drunken driver.

People driving after taking alcohol can be identified through a blood test and most drink drivers know that their driving will be affected by alcohol. However, For sleep apnea sufferers, in most cases, they would not even realize that their driving was risky. It is estimated that Sleep Apnea sufferers have three to seven times higher risk rate for having an accident than non sufferers.

The Tell-Tale Signs...............

Waking up drowsy in the morning gives the first indication about the lack of proper sleep or presence of sleep disorders. This drowsiness may be because of taking alcohol during the previous night. Daytime drowsiness is another indication. It is estimated that about 20% of drivers on the roads have some kind of sleep disorder.

Many People deprive themselves of the rest required for their body. Our society and culture have a tendency to promote the 24/7 culture terming it as something positive, without taking into account the health risks associated with burning the candle at both ends.

Different state governments have formulated rules to keep drivers with sleep disorders off the road.

Proper Diagnoses & treatment is vital

The best thing a sleep apnea patient can do is to properly identify whether he has sleep deprivation or other sleep problems. Good sleep that gives complete rest to body and mind is essential to ensure safe driving.

The subject "sleep apnea and driving" should not be viewed with skepticism and fear - patients should understand the risks, see the tell tale warning signs of sleep apnea when driving and seek proper medical advice & the necessary treatment.


Toby Russell & his website: http://www.sleepapneainfoguide.com aims to give useful information, news and advice for sufferers.




Driving with Sleep Apnea - The Risks Explained




Read through Sleep Apnea Medication far more



Sleep Apnea Medication

Sleep Apnea Mask

Sleep apnea is thought to be a silent killer with millions of people affected by the condition in the USA alone. The condition is said to affect people of all ages, sex and races alike. Obese people more than 40 years of age are a high risk category and need to take sleep apnea medication if diagnosed with the condition. The treatment may continue life long depending upon your medical status. It should be started based on a thorough assessment of your medical history and analysis of your sleep pattern.

As more and more research is being directed in understanding the causes of sleep disorders, the traditional methods of treating the diseases are giving way to a more scientific approach of dealing with the problem. Needless to say that people are researchers are finding alternate sleep apnea medication to bring about improvement in the life styles of patients and enhance their life span.

One of the most important methods of treating sleep apnea is through continuous positive airway pressure or more commonly known as C PAP. The system involves use of sleep apnea masks for supply of air pressure to airways during your sleep. While the procedure is most effective, it still causes inconvenience and discomfort hence the compliance level among patients is not that high. Secondly even after using the system regularly, you may be having residual sleepiness causing you fatigue and a feeling of lack of control during day time. Sleep apnea medication can be taken by such people in conjunction with their existing line of treatment. This will address most of the cases of sleepiness in people even when they are using C PAP which till date remains the most effective treatment available for sleep apnea.

One golden rule to be followed before taking sleep apnea medication is that you have to make a fair assessment of factors behind sleep deprivation during the night. As this is one of the most common conditions, it may also lead to the wrong diagnosis. Thus lack of sleep due to stress and related factors is not sleep apnea. You may end up being on the wrong side of medication if you do not apply time and effort diagnosing the symptoms and causes. Similar is the case where your sleep deprivation in night is treated as simple case of stress and heartburn when actually you are afflicted with sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea medication can also be used as a bridge therapy where the patients are prescribed the medication during the time; they are upgrading from existing C PAP procedures to a more prolonged use in the night. This may be required to address the sleepiness during the daytime. A number of anti depressant drugs are also found to have some therapeutic values for treating sleep apnea. It is found that some of these drugs reduce the number of times patients have to get up in night due to their medical condition. These medications manipulate the brain chemicals responsible for helping people breathe normally during the night. A lot of research is being done and clinical trials are on before these wonder drugs are available as effective sleep apnea medication.


Do you suffer from sleep apnea? Our site focuses on sleep apnea treatments and symptoms for sufferers of sleep apnea. by T. D. Houser






Understand Sleep Apnea Devices and Their Side Effects extra



Sleep Apnea Mask

Unlike many disorders, for those afflicted with sleep apnea, the sufferers are often the people with whom they sleep. Bed partners have to lie awake listening to their irregular breathing patterns and worry that they may not take their next breath. Of course, those who are afflicted also contend with symptoms that make life difficult, particularly in their waking hours when they are dealing with tiredness and lack of concentration as a result. Sleep apnea devices are designed to assist the patient to breathe properly and thus, hopefully ensure a good night's sleep. Unfortunately, not all sleep apnea devices work for all sufferers so it can be a case of trial and error until the most appropriate device is determined.

CPAP devices

Some cases of the disorder are remedied with surgical solutions whereas others are more readily treated with sleep apnea devices designed to help the airways remain open during sleep. These can include, CPAP - Continuous Positive Airway Pressure - devices, dental appliances, jaw adjustment devices and even the administration of oxygen during sleep.

CPAP sleep apnea devices provide safe and effective, immediate relief. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. CPAP machines are portable air generators that operate to deliver oxygen at low pressure to the patient via nasal tubing or a full face mask. The job of the air pressure is to push the patient's tongue forward and open the throat so that air can flow more easily into the lungs.

Side effects

Unfortunately, CPAP sleep apnea devices are not without their own side effects. Some patients report dry eyes, headaches, soreness on the bridge of the nose, skin breakouts around the perimeter of the mask, skin dryness, dry mouth, dry nose and stomach wind. Still, for some patients, not using one of these machines presents more health issues than the associated side effects and could even make the difference between life and death.

Types of machines

CPAP machines are not all the same. There are those that are self-adjusting, some that are adjusted manually and some that are bi-pressure. Some include heated dehumidifiers. Understandably these kinds of sleep apnea devices require a prescription so that the correct machine can be purchased for the patient's particular requirements. It is important to develop a relationship with your machine retailer because they will stock all the necessary masks, hoses and other accessories that will need to be replaced periodically. Your retailer will be specially trained in the functioning of the machines and will be able to advise on maintenance as well as be able to answer all of your questions.

APAP machines

The APAP sleep apnea device is a machine that operates automatically to adjust the pressure required on a breath by breath basis, to keep patients' airways open as they sleep. APAP machines are more advanced, and therefore more expensive, than CPAPs but for severe apnea sufferers, the extra expense means enhanced peace of mind.

Dental devices

For those who are fortunate enough not to require comprehensive machinery, there are dental sleep apnea devices that are quite effective. They are portable so ideal for travel and in some instances, they are actually more successful and effective than surgery for some kinds of airway obstructions.

A dental sleep apnea device prevents the patient's tongue from falling back into the throat and causing the patient to stop breathing, however temporarily. The device simply holds the patient's lower jaw forward using two full arch acrylic devices that cover the teeth and that are attached to each other. Different models offer different degrees of advancement but medical professionals recommend at least 50% movement for success.

Side effects

Side effects of dental sleep apnea devices include soreness, build-up of saliva, possible damage to the jaw, teeth and mouth and even a permanent alteration to the position of the teeth or jaw. Again, the side effects must be weighed against the benefits achieved to determine the best solution.

Considering the degrees of severity of sleep apnea and the results achieved by some of the sleep apnea devices available to patients, sufferers should invest time in being diagnosed properly. Therapy for the condition is not a one-size-fits-all situation and solutions must be tailor-made for the individual.


Visit medopedia.com for more on the sleep apnea mask and sleep apnea tests




Sleep Apnea Devices and Their Side Effects




Study SSRIs and Sleep Apnea more



Lexapro is the latest and most effective member of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) group of drugs used for their anti-depressant effects.

Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by intermittent pauses in breathing pauses during sleep. The number of such pauses can range from a few to hundreds during the period of sleep. Sleep apnea's main symptom is loud snoring followed by a gasping or snorting sound when the person resumes breathing. Sleep adversely affects the quality of sleep and the person is more vulnerable to fatigue during the following day.

Depression linked to sleep apnea: Studies reveal that people with depression are 500% more likely to have breathing-related sleep disorders compared with people who don't have depression. Sleep disorders can lead to hypertension, depressive disorders, stroke or cognitive deterioration as well as social and professional conflicts. It is therefore important to have sleep disorders treated. However, it remains a mystery to medical science how sleep disorders and depression are linked. It remains unclear whether depression causes sleep apnea or vice versa.

Correlation between Lexapro and sleep apnea: The correlation is interesting. Sleep apnea can give rise to depressive disorders. But, depression itself, or use or abuse of SSRI antidepressants such as Lexapro, can cause side-effects that include sleeping disorders. Lexapro also leads to weight gain in some patients, and weight gain is common among people with sleep apnea.

Nevertheless, it has been seen that Lexapro is effective in the treatment of sleep apnea if the doctor's prescription and advice is meticulously followed. Self-medication with Lexapro can aggravate sleep apnea.





SSRIs and Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea



Read through Obstructive Sleep Apnea - A Quick Guide much more



There are three different types of sleep apnea, "obstructive" being the most common, and this is the type we are mainly looking at here. This term, refers to a breathing disorder which happens when the patient is sleeping and their breathing undergoes brief and repeated interruptions. This condition was discovered not that long ago, in the 60s, I think. It is more common in drinkers and smokers and people who are overweight. It has been connected with, strokes, and also cardiopulmonary problems, it is also extremely common, and is reported to affect about twelve million Americans. This condition can be a life-threatening disorder.

Unfortunately, the individual who suffers from sleep apnea is usually the last one to know. Symptoms Obviously because symptoms occur when the persons asleep, they are normally first noticed by their partner. Some of the symptoms are noisy and persistent snoring, the stopping and starting of breathing while asleep, and falling asleep at inappropriate times of the day. More signs of sleep apnea are, falling asleep while driving, at work or sitting in a chair. Also depression, forgetfulness, and irritability are some more symptoms to look out for. You should go and see your doctor if you have daytime sleepiness, or if your family sees any signs of obstructive apnea. Some of the above mentioned symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea may cause a severe impact on the patient's health and well being, and possibly even relationships. As you can see, this problem can have a knock on effect in a lot of areas of your life Treatment Diagnosis and treatment are really essential, and there are a number of treatments available for this condition, including the treatment of the underlying cause.

The most common treatment for apnea is (CPAP) which stands for, continuous positive airway pressure. The usual treatment for children who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea is removal of the tonsils and also the adenoids. It must be noted that the treatment of this malady can be surgical or nonsurgical. To end on a positive note, with the correct treatment, it is quite possible for patients with sleep apnea to have a good quality of life. As always if you have any concerns, consult a medical professional.

Sleep Apnea

James Hunaban is the owner of http://health-concerns.net a site full of health information.




Obstructive Sleep Apnea - A Quick Guide

Sleep Apnea



Read Sleep Apnea Mask - 3 Types of Sleep Apnea Masks extra



Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a very serious disease which can shorten your life span. Treatment, however is easy, painless, and drug free. Typically, sleep apnea sufferers will be prescribed a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. The CPAP machine consists of a machine that blows air into the nose via a mask and tubing. There are several models of sleep apnea masks available. The most commonly available masks include:

1. The full face mask. Some apnea sufferers require a full face mask. This is usually the case if you breathe with your mouth open or suffer chronic sinus issues.

2. The nasal mask. This type of mask covers the nose only. It fits over and seals the nasal area. This is typically prescribed for first time users. Most patients are able to tolerate this mask well. If you sleep on your side, there is a greater possibility that you might knock the mask askew and break the seal.

3. Nasal Pillows or Nose Cushions. These masks seal over the nostrils, fitting only under the nose. This type of mask is very quiet. It can take a few days to get used to the pillows or cushion pushing into your nose, however, this mask leaves more of the face open, allowing for easy reading or television watching while wearing the mask. It is also the best option for those suffering from claustrophobia.

Apnea is diagnosed during a sleep study, during which time you will be fitted with a mask and CPAP machine. When you are prescribed a CPAP machine you will also be fitted with a mask. The technicians will work with you to determine which of the sleep apnea masks will most likely suit your needs. Make sure to discuss with them any concerns you may have had during the sleep study.


Click here for sleep apnea masks http://sleepapneasource.com/






Sleep Apnea Mask - 3 Types of Sleep Apnea Masks

Sleep Apnea

Go through Why Use a Sleep Apnea Machine? more



A cpap machine machine helps a patient in many ways when it comes to treating obstructive sleep apnea. By far, the most important among them is that it negates the need for surgery. It is a non-invasive method of restoring sleep that is widely used by physicians across the nation today. As a matter of fact, it is the most effective and preferred method of treating obstructive sleep apnea. It helps restore undisturbed sleep to the patient by preventing the short pauses in breath that occur during their sleeping cycles. In medical circles, this is more commonly referred to as apnea.

It is always better to try out the cpap mask interface that comes with these units before going ahead and investing in one of these devices. Many patients feel uncomfortable and claustrophobic wearing masks that cover the entire face and forehead. For this reason, there are masks that are molded just to cover the nose of the patient to make them feel less uncomfortable. Some notable and common side effects of using cpap machines during the very early stages include sneezing, irritation of the eyes and face, a sore throat, bloating of the abdomen, and air leakage around the mask due to improper wearing. These symptoms will disappear gradually with more regular usage of the unit.

Once the sleep apnea machine is used correctly, it does its work very effectively and works very well for the patient. Therefore, care must be taken to insure that you choose the correct model that suits you even if it takes time. Your physician can help you with this process. In addition, your physician can refer you to a durable medical equipment company, where a qualified clinician will assist you in finding the correct cap unit and mask interface that is just right for you.

The advantages of using these machines are many. Research shows that continuous use of these machines reduces patient's daytime sleepiness as they have adequate rest during the night. Other benefits include improved memory and a reduction of high blood pressure. A sleep apnea machine works very well for those people who suffer from moderate to severe states of this condition. It is not particularly useful for those suffering from milder symptoms. The milder cases may easily be corrected by making some lifestyle changes, such as losing weight.

In any case, if your have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or think you may suffer from it, consult you physician to recommend the best type of treatment for you.

Sleep Apnea Mask
Tag :




Why Use a Sleep Apnea Machine?